Arcade1Up Class of '81 Deluxe Review

Arcade1Up has been making waves in the home arcade scene with their line of classic arcade cabinets, and the Class of '81 Deluxe is no exception. This cabinet celebrates three iconic arcade games from the early 1980s: Defender, Gauntlet, and Joust. For those nostalgic about the golden age of arcade gaming or new players looking to experience these classic hits, the Class of '81 Deluxe offers a compelling mix of gameplay and nostalgia. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall value of the Arcade1Up Class of '81 Deluxe to see if it lives up to the hype.

Design and Build Quality

The Arcade1Up Class of '81 Deluxe cabinet is striking right out of the box with its vibrant artwork and classic arcade design. The cabinet features original artwork from the 1980s, capturing the essence of the arcade era with colorful graphics and retro styling. The design includes a 17-inch LCD screen that replicates the classic arcade experience with its high-resolution display.

Build Quality

One of the standout features of the Class of '81 Deluxe is its build quality. The cabinet is constructed from MDF (medium-density fiberboard), which is durable and provides a solid feel. The control panel is spacious and includes a joystick and buttons for each game, designed to offer a true arcade experience. The buttons and joystick are responsive, which is crucial for a satisfying gaming experience.

Gameplay Experience

• Defender: Defender is a classic side-scrolling shooter that was groundbreaking for its time. The game features fast-paced action, with players defending humanoids from alien invaders. The gameplay on the Class of '81 Deluxe is true to the original arcade experience, with responsive controls and vibrant graphics that make the game feel as thrilling as ever.

• Gauntlet: Gauntlet is a beloved dungeon crawl arcade game that allows up to four players to team up and battle through hordes of enemies. The Class of '81 Deluxe version maintains the cooperative gameplay that made Gauntlet a hit. The cabinet includes a four-player setup, allowing for a multiplayer experience that is both fun and chaotic.

• Joust: Joust is a unique arcade game where players control knights on flying ostriches, battling other knights in mid-air combat. The gameplay on the Class of '81 Deluxe captures the quirky and challenging nature of Joust, with smooth controls and accurate reproduction of the original game's physics.

Features and Specifications

• Screen: 17-inch LCD display with a resolution that faithfully reproduces the graphics of the original games.
• Controls: Responsive joystick and buttons designed to mimic the feel of arcade controls.
• Speakers: Built-in speakers provide clear audio, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
• Volume Control: Adjustable volume settings to suit your gaming environment.
• Assembly: The cabinet requires some assembly, but the process is straightforward with clear instructions.

Comparisons with Other Arcade1Up Models

The Class of '81 Deluxe stands out from other Arcade1Up models due to its selection of games and the inclusion of multiplayer options. While other cabinets might focus on a single game or offer different titles, the Class of '81 Deluxe provides a diverse experience with three distinct games, catering to various tastes.

Price and Value

The price point for the Arcade1Up Class of '81 Deluxe is competitive compared to other home arcade machines. Considering the quality of the build, the inclusion of three classic games, and the multiplayer options, the value is quite high. For enthusiasts of 1980s arcade games, this cabinet offers an excellent way to relive those memories without needing a large space or extensive setup.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Three Classic Games: Offers a diverse selection of games, providing multiple gaming experiences.
  • High-Quality Build: Durable construction and responsive controls enhance gameplay.
  • Multiplayer Options: Allows for cooperative play in Gauntlet and competitive play in Joust.

• Cons:

  • Assembly Required: Some assembly is needed, which might be a drawback for those looking for a plug-and-play solution.
  • Limited Screen Size: The 17-inch screen may feel small for some users compared to larger monitors.

Conclusion

The Arcade1Up Class of '81 Deluxe is a fantastic addition to any home arcade setup. It delivers a nostalgic trip back to the early 1980s with three classic games that remain popular and enjoyable today. The build quality, responsive controls, and multiplayer options make it a great choice for both seasoned gamers and newcomers to the arcade scene. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the need for assembly and the relatively small screen size, these are outweighed by the overall value and experience offered by this cabinet.

If you're a fan of classic arcade games and want a high-quality home arcade machine, the Arcade1Up Class of '81 Deluxe is definitely worth considering. It offers a well-rounded package of retro gaming fun, making it a standout choice in the home arcade market.